A resort is a destination that becomes a world itself, where from the moment you enter it is designed with the intention to create an unforgettable escape, offering a true retreat from daily life and allowing to fully immerse in the resort’s experiences.
It is a destination where every moment flow effortlessly with natural surroundings, providing a self-contained vacation experience with a wide range of amenities and activities, often set against scenic landscapes.
A successful resort design architecture layout plans every detail of the guest’s journey, from arrival to departure, creating an experience where each step feels intentional and seamless. It is essential that we thoughtfully consider some important elements.
CREATE CLEAR AND FUNCTIONAL GUEST FLOW
Guests should feel welcomed and relaxed from the moment they arrive. This means carefully designing the sequence of arrival spaces, check-in areas, and the transition into the rest of the resort.
The arrival/check-in area experience serves as the first point of contact, setting the tone for the entire stay. It should be designed and strategically located to create an immediate sense of welcome, immersing guests in the feeling of vacation from the very first moment. When designing these spaces, we must carefully consider the flow movement and anticipate the activities guests will engage in.
This area serves as the heart of the resort, where guests come together to interact, socialize, or simply relax. It could house the lobby, dining spaces, lounges, or event venues. A central gathering space fosters a sense of community and belonging, making every visitor feel like a part of something larger.
Designing an efficient flow is essential to meet the needs of guests while maintaining the comfort and functionality of the back-of-house spaces. To ensure everything functions smoothly, it is crucial to thoughtfully integrate service areas, allowing them to work harmoniously yet independently. This integration contributes to a cohesive and smooth guest experience throughout their stay.
MAXIMIZE THE VIEW AND NATURAL ELEMENTS
Resorts are often situated in scenic locations, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, whether it’s a beach, mountain, or forest. The architecture of a resort should blend with its surroundings, using local materials and design styles to enhance its aesthetic and create a true sense of place. This approach ensures that the resort feels integrated into the environment, rather than being an external structure placed within it. To fully immerse guests in the natural beauty, it’s crucial to strategically position rooms, dining areas, and common spaces to offer the best possible views.
Landscaping plays a key role in this fusion of architecture and nature. Thoughtful plant choices not only enhance the resort’s beauty but can also promote sustainability. Using native plants reduces water consumption and maintenance, while green roofs and walls contribute to energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Sustainable resort design is no longer a passing trend—it’s an essential step toward creating a more eco-conscious future.
Strategic landscaping can also play a crucial role in creating private retreats within the resort. Noise management is key, louder areas like bars or event spaces should be situated far from guest rooms. Incorporating vegetation, small walls, and other natural elements can enhance privacy while preserving the resort’s atmosphere. Guests should feel as though they have their own serene space to relax, free from the bustle of the larger resort.
Privacy is a critical aspect of resort design. While guests may enjoy socializing in communal areas, they also seek quiet moments for rest and reflection. A well-designed resort layout balances both needs, ensuring that guests can enjoy the best of both worlds.
RECREATIONAL AREAS
A resort’s success hinges on its ability to offer a variety of recreational amenities—such as pools, spas, fitness centers, and restaurants—that are integrated into its overall design. These facilities should be strategically placed within the resort’s layout, ensuring they are easily accessible to guests without disrupting the peaceful atmosphere desired by those seeking relaxation. Thoughtfully designed spaces like these elevate the sense of escape, allowing guests to effortlessly transition from restful serenity to invigorating recreation. This design flexibility empowers guests to tailor their stay to their personal preferences.
MULTI-USE AND FLEXIBILITY OF SPACES
Resorts should feature flexible spaces that can easily adapt to a variety of activities, which is especially important in luxury resorts where space may be limited. Dining areas, bars, and lounges need to serve multiple functions throughout the day. For example, a breakfast room might transition into a lunch area, and a bar could shift from a casual gathering spot to a romantic dinner setting.
Designing spaces with versatility in mind maximizes functionality without overcrowding the resort. Multi-use spaces not only reduce construction costs but also provide guests with more opportunities to enjoy their stay.
Building for flexibility means designing both indoor and outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed year-round. A space that adapts to the seasons ensures that the resort remains appealing no matter when guests visit. Moreover, it provides opportunities to host seasonal events and activities that add to the experience.
NUNZIO MARC DESANTIS ARCHITECTS: CREATING THE PERFECT RESORT EXPERIENCE
At Nunzio Marc DeSantis Architects, NMDA, we specialize in designing resorts that blend innovative design with functional solutions, always prioritizing their guest experiences.
Our designs always consider the cultural context and the local surroundings, ensuring that each project is as distinctive as the destination itself. We work closely with our clients focusing on every detail from the ground up, making each resort an unforgettable experience.
– written by Paula Fernandez Corti, Designer Architect at NMDA
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